LAKE, MICHIGAN, Mich — After a hot and humid week, the forecast for Labor Day weekend is looking to be drier with far more comfortable conditions. Temperatures will be topping out in the 70s with humidity breaking, expect plenty of sunshine.
Any outdoor activities will be good to go, but if you’re planning for one last beach day, you’ll want to be aware of when we will see some rough waters on Lake Michigan.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Beach Hazards Statement in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday night. This alert will impact the following counties: Oceana, Muskegon, Ottawa, Allegan, and Van Buren.
Saturday won’t be a cause for concern when it comes to swimming conditions with waves around 1-2 feet, but that changes overnight.
Winds out of the north-northwest will pick up to 15-20 mph gusting up to 25 mph Saturday night resulting in choppy waters. Waves will build from 1-2 feet Saturday evening to 3-6 feet by early Sunday morning. Rough waters persist through Sunday with waves up to 6 feet.
High wave action and strong currents will make for dangerous swimming conditions on Lake Michigan, especially on the northern side of north piers. Waves could wash over piers at times as well.
Strong rip currents and high waves can create dangerous situations for even the strongest swimmers. Always make sure to check a beach's swimming conditions before jumping into the water. If you find yourself caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, and then back toward land.
Dangerous swimming conditions don't last all weekend long - choppy waters calm down Sunday night with waves receding to 1-2 feet for Labor Day.
